Silver sage (Salvia argentea)

Silver sage

Silver sage is a short plant with broad leaves and furry silver tops. The leaves have a wooly texture making them ideal petting plants. This plant has been awarded the Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticulture Society. It complements colorful, ornamental plants.

Scientific classification

Species

Silver sage (Salvia argentea)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial, Biennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

15 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Silver, Gray, Green

Leaf Color

White, Yellow, Cream, Pink

Flower Color

Gray, Silver, White

Stem Color

Images of Silver sage

Quickly Identify Silver sage

Silver-grey velvety foliage up to 15 inches (38 cm) long and 6 inches (15 cm) wide.

Candelabra-shaped flower spike 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall with white blooms tinged with yellow or pink.

Distinctive flowers in whorls, tubular and hooded, attracting pollinators with unique structure.

Rosette leaves with downy, felt-like texture, wrinkled surface, and silver-green color.

Whorled flower arrangement on tall stems, visually appealing during blooming season.

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Care Guide for Silver sage

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Silver sage flourishes in arid climates, showcasing strong drought tolerance. Weekly watering ensures its vitality. Native to the Mediterranean, it endures hot, dry summers and mild winters. This deciduous herb thrives outdoors, benefiting from rainfall during its growing season.

Fertilize: Fertilize silver sage every six weeks in the growing season with balanced fertilizers to boost growth and flowering. Apply recommended rates to prevent root damage. In dormancy, use less fertilizer. Employ controlled-release or liquid types, and water silver sage well after application for optimal nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Silver sage needs early to late spring pruning to remove dead stems and promote air circulation. Trim flower stalks post-bloom for robust growth. Avoid late summer pruning to prevent frost damage. Regular pruning maintains silver sage's shape, vigor, and supports healthy blooming.

Propagation: Silver sage boasts striking woolly white leaves in a basal rosette. For effective propagation, sow seeds in well-draining soil, ensuring warmth and consistent moisture. Provide ample light while protecting seedlings from harsh sun. Regular misting aids humidity, and select healthy specimens for propagation as silver sage matures.

Repotting: Lush and woolly, silver sage is a low, mounded bush. Repot every 2-3 years in spring for optimal growth. Use a slightly larger pot, ensure well-drained soil, and provide moderate watering to help silver sage thrive after winter dormancy.

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